Even though Plastic surgery is very common throughout Alberta, very few Albertans have heard about labiaplasty. You may have heard the name but may not have any idea what it is and which part of the body is involved.
What is a labiaplasty?
The main difference between a labiaplasty and other treatments under the “vaginal rejuvenation” umbrella is that a labiaplasty is a surgical procedure. The labiaplasty procedure aims to decrease the size of the labia minora (inner tissues of the female genitalia) so that it is flush with the labia majora (outer part of the female genitalia). This procedure involves utilizing several different surgical techniques depending on the patient’s specific situation. There are no energy devices required with a labiaplasty, and you will work with Dr. Laliberte to determine the goals of your surgery.
Reasons for a labiaplasty
There are a host of reasons females may have enlarged labia, including childbirth, aging, sexual activity and genetics. Females choose to have surgery for several reasons. First, there are several functional benefits when electing for a labiaplasty. Many females who suffer from enlarged labia may experience difficulty with exercise, hygiene, urinary tract infections, sexual activity and other physical activity.
Furthermore, with the increasing trend of wearing yoga pants, workout pants and swimming suits, an enlarged labium can make it difficult to wear such clothes. However, most female patients describe feeling extremely self-conscious when becoming romantically involved with their partners. These reasons and others are what females consider when choosing a labiaplasty.
Labiaplasty procedures
Initially, there was a single procedure for labiaplasty, and it was very popular as well. With the change of time and advancement in techniques, several techniques have evolved. Some of them are as follows:
Labiaplasty Trim procedure
The ‘trim procedure’ is the original technique and is the most natural to perform. The trim technique remains the most commonly used surgical method to perform labiaplasty. This approach involves creating an incision that removes the outer edge of the inner labia, making the inner labia even with the outer labia (or slightly receded).
One of the benefits of this labiaplasty technique is that it trims away the naturally darkest part of the labia. For many women, removal of the darker edge is one of the cosmetic reasons why they choose to have labiaplasty.
Labiaplasty Wedge procedure
The ‘wedge procedure’ is a newer alternative to trim labiaplasty. Using this method, Dr. Laliberte will remove a V-shaped “wedge” from both sides of the labia and then stitches the remaining edges together.
Although the wedge technique avoids the problem of smoothly transitioning at the clitoral bulb, it typically leaves the darkest parts of the labia intact, which may be undesirable for some women.
There are several other techniques for reducing the labia minora, and all these techniques have certain advantages and disadvantages. If you are considering a labiaplasty, the key to ensure appropriate outcomes is to make sure you are going to a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Laliberte who specializes in this procedure.
Anesthesia for a labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is an outpatient surgery. The procedure can be performed within an hour, either individually or with other cosmetic surgery. It can be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the treatment plan discussed with Dr. Laliberte.
Labiaplasty Postsurgical care
The genital region of females is very sensitive and requires proper care in general. So, when undertaking a procedure like a labiaplasty, there are some post-operative instructions you need to be aware of before having the procedure.
You should avoid long showers and should pat the wound dry every time after washing. Antibiotics may be prescribed by Dr. Laliberte and should be taken to reduce pain and inflammation, which can be present after the procedure. Bike riding, running and other physical activities will need to be avoided until you have been released by our healthcare team. Premature return to the activities can exert pressure on the wound and will unnecessarily delay the healing process. You will be advised to not wear tight clothes or undergarments as they can cause friction against the wound. Also, you cannot indulge in sexual intercourse for at least four weeks.
Choosing to have a labiaplasty
Labiaplasty has both functional and cosmetic benefits. Most women undergo surgery to reduce the excess labia which twists and turn and causes pain and irritation. Others want to restore their youthful look after childbirth or aging. Though the reasons are numerous, you should seek a board-certified plastic surgeon that understands the medical, mental and emotional factors of a procedure like a labiaplasty.
Starting your plastic surgery journey
If you think that plastic surgery might be right for you and your cosmetic goals, be sure to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon for a consultation. Dr. Laliberte at Radiance Plastic Surgery is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 10 years of plastic surgery experience. His artistic and highly technical approach produces natural results tailored to enhance and complement your specific goals and circumstances.
If you are interested in learning more about other body procedures, or to book a consultation, please complete our online form, call us, or email us at office@radianceplasticsurgery.ca.
